Lagos Queens Cup: Robo Queens beat Ayisat Yusuf FA to win title
The inaugural Lagos Queens Cup concluded dramatically at the Legacy Pitch in Surulere on Saturday, with FC Robo Queens emerging as champions following a 0-0 draw and a 4-2 victory in the penalty shootout against Ayisat Yusuf FA.
Both teams had opportunities during regular time but failed to score in a highly competitive final.
The match was closely contested from the outset. In the 16th minute, FC Robo striker Mariam Yahaya nearly opened the scoring, but her shot hit the post.
Meanwhile, Ayisat Yusuf FA’s Awawu Iyanda managed to round goalkeeper Mercy Olodu, yet the Robo defense quickly intervened to clear the ball.
Earlier in the day, FA Victory Queens claimed third place with a 1-0 victory over CATS Ladies. Olaronke Ola netted the only goal in the 28th minute, assisted beautifully by Chidera Isaiah, marking her third goal of the tournament.
This result was well-deserved for Victory Queens, who showcased impressive performances throughout the competition.
During the tournament, international scouts including Faith Ikidi-Michael, Maiju Ruotsalainen, Marko Saranlinna, and James Burgin were present to evaluate players.
The Lagos Queens Cup was made possible through the support of partners such as the Lagos State Football Association, 36 Lion Investment, Herizon Sports Initiative, Ayisat Yusuf Football Foundation, Diego Nakamura, Ivory Health Club, and Africa Football Empowerment Congress.
At the conclusion of the tournament, LSFA Chairman Hajji Gafar expressed his satisfaction with the talent displayed.
He pledged further investment in women’s football and extended his gratitude to all partners for their collaborative efforts in supporting young girls and creating opportunities beyond the national team.
“As an association, we will not stop here. We will invest more in women’s football because this is where the future is. We need to create more platforms like this so that our girls can be seen, be scouted, and get the opportunities they deserve.”
Gafar concluded by appreciating all stakeholders who made the tournament possible.
“I want to thank our partners for pulling their resources together to support the girl child. Without Herizon Sports Initiative, Ayisat Yusuf Football Foundation, Diego Nakamura, Ivory Health Club, and Africa Football Empowerment Congress, this would not have been possible. This is teamwork, and this is how we grow the game,” he stated.
With competitive matches, goals, and international attention, the maiden Lagos Queens Cup has set a new standard for women’s football development in Nigeria.
As the curtains fall, the focus now shifts to following up on the scouting reports and ensuring the players who impressed get real opportunities to advance their careers.
